Two Republican U.S. senators criticizing a conference planned for federal judges in Maui say the top judge for the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is unapologetic and his response could affect Congressional budgeting for the court.

A spokesman for Sen. Jeff Sessions of Alabama today reiterated comments Sessions made last month that if nothing changes, the Senate may need to evaluate the judicial branch’s budget request.

Sessions is the senior Republican of the Senate Budget Committee.

Chief Judge Alex Kozinski for the court one step below the Supreme Court says Maui was picked for its competitive room rates and cheaper travel costs because of the number of airlines serving Hawaii.

Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa says the August conference will be the fourth in Hawaii in nine years.